Key Takeaways:
– Jeff Wilson Jr.’s position in the Miami Dolphins team is uncertain despite agreeing to a substantial salary cut.
– The Dolphins used a contract restructure allowing them to save $3.67 million in cap space.
– Despite the pay cut, Wilson will face stiff competition from newly drafted running back, Jaylen Wright.
– With a limited role last season, Wilson’s time in South Florida might be coming to an end.
Restructured Contract Yet An Uncertain Future
Miami Dolphins’ running back, Jeff Wilson Jr., agreed to a contract restructure offering the football franchise $3.67 million in cap space savings this offseason. Despite his generous gesture, the nine-year veteran player’s future with the team seems to be on precarious ground. David Kenyon of Bleacher Report regards Wilson as the “best” player with an increasing likelihood of missing this summer’s final roster cut due to the Dolphins’ new additions.
In 2023, the Dolphins relied primarily on Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane, limiting the number of carries Wilson received. The recent drafting of talented speedster, Jaylen Wright, from Tennessee, may further reduce Wilson’s likelihood of retaining his spot on the team.
Wilson’s Ever-decreasing Role
Since joining the Dolphins in November 2022, Wilson’s role has notably diminished. Initially, Wilson played a significant part with the Dolphins, carrying the ball 84 times, equating to 392 yards and three touchdowns. He had impressive career-best stats in the 2022 season, which saw him rack up 860 rushing yards and five touchdowns. He also had 22 receptions for 185 yards and one receiving touchdown in the season he split between the Dolphins and San Francisco 49ers.
Unfortunately, following the Dolphins’ 2023 drafting of Achane, Wilson only appeared in 10 games, taking a mere 41 carries for a total of 188 yards.
Competition in the Backfield
While the Dolphins might still retain Wilson if five running backs make the roster, his competitors are not making this an easy feat. The selection of Jaylen Wright in the fourth round of the NFL draft ramps up the rivalry. Wright’s impressive 4.38 seconds run for the 40-yard dash shows the rookie means business.
Wright displayed ambition and determination during his rookie season, which has filled the team management with confidence. His tenacity on and off the field is indicative of a promising future with the Dolphins.
As Wright expressed, he is up for the challenge and ready to prove his worth, not just to the coaches but his teammates as well. His familiarity with sharing carries due to his time at Tennessee might prove advantageous in his bid to secure a spot on the team.
In Summary
While Wilson’s future remains uncertain, the Dolphins’ backfield will see increased competition with the inclusion of Wright. Despite a contract restructure saving the team a significant chunk in cap space, it seems Wilson’s time in South Florida could be drawing to a close. As it stands, he may be facing an uphill battle to secure his spot on the Dolphins’ roster this summer.